DHM Design was selected to lead the planning process for flood recovery of the parks and river restoration within the Town of Lyons. As part of this work, DHM led a series of 9 public meetings for the Town of Lyons for the recovery of parks and trails that were affected by the 2013 floods. We evaluated the extent of the flood damage in relation to pre-flood conditions, including FEMA damage assessment documents, and conducted a robust public engagement process that allowed for the entire community to get involved with flood recovery planning and build reslience into their parks. The public process was extensive and often sensitive. In the end, community support for the master plans was attained and the residents were very excited to see that their voices were heard and incorporated into the final plans. As part of our efforts a comprehensive Operations, Maintenance Analysis, and Financial Study was conducted and gave the Town a realistic understanding of ongoing costs to develop and maintain these parks.
Phase one of the 35-acre Bohn Park is complete with instream improvements, river access that supports fishing habitat, two baseball/softball fields, playground, multi-use soccer field, custom restroom and shade shelters, picnic areas, Lyons Dirt Jump Bike Skills Park, Dog Park, and a multi-use sport court. The St. Vrain Creek (north and south fork) runs along the north boundary of the Park. Flood mitigation measures and overflow channels were incorporated into the design. Lyons Valley River Park is under construction and once completed will provide a uniquely cohesive recreational opportunity. It will be an opportunity that showcases Lyons’ identity as a river town and an overall recreation destination. It is also an opportunity that, through trail connections to Boulder and Longmont, routes the majority of active visitors through this corridor parkland and the Town of Lyons. The restoration of the river corridor and the ponds in the Lyons Valley River Park area will once again allow wildlife to thrive in this critical habitat area of Lyons and potentially allow for flood mitigation opportunities. Components include flat water recreation ponds, habitat restoration, passive recreation trails and beach access, storm water flood conveyance and beautiful upland, riparian and wetland bio-diversity to solve bio-engineering needs of a natural stream and pond restoration When these components are combined, the result is an attractive and interactive natural river corridor park that offers a variety of recreational, ecological and educational activities.
